Cardiovascular Research Institute

The Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) Core combines state-of-the-art atomic force microscopy with real-time confocal imaging to support diverse biological research applications. Supported by an NIH S10 shared instrument award with funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Core is customized for studying everything from single molecules to living cells to intact tissues. Researchers across the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, including those in cardiology, radiology, systems biology, structural biology, and orthopedics, use the Core for high-resolution imaging, biomechanical testing, single cell force probing, and numerous other applications that require nanoscale precision.

The Core features an Asylum MFP-3D-BIO atomic force microscope integrated with an Olympus IX-81 DSU real-time confocal microscope, designed for reliability in a multi-user environment. The system conducts biomechanical studies complemented by fast, high-resolution confocal fluorescence imaging at 30 frames per second, while the atomic force microscope breaks the optical resolution barrier through force spectroscopy and nanoscale imaging. Open-access control and post-processing software based on Igor Pro is fully coupled with the optical setup, enabling "point-shoot" and "overlay" features that cross-correlate AFM characterization with optical fluorescence through custom imaging routines. Advanced features, including an extended 40-micron z-axis range, fluid cell and petri dish heater with environmental control, close-loop scanning with independent piezoelectric stacks, and vibration isolation with acoustic enclosure, provide researchers with exceptional experimental flexibility while maintaining industry-leading atomic force microscopy capabilities.

For inquiries about projects with the Atomic Force Microscopy Core, please contact Director Kevin D. Costa, PhD.